Description

This very beautifully made puzzle box is in the shape of a house. There are 12 well-disguised moves to open this puzzle box.

Simple versions of these puzzle boxes were first made as souvenirs in the Hakone region of Japan as early as 1830. Later other versions were developed as small chests for workers to keep their tools safe from theft; called Shikake-Bako (Shikake means device or trick in Japanese) or Tie-Bako (Tie means idea or wisdom or intelligence in Japanese). It was only after 1870 that Mr Ohkawa started to develop more complex “tricks” to open the boxes; the first Himitsu-Bako made in Hakone. Himitsu-Bako means Secret Box in Japanese and these boxes are commonly known as a “Personal Secret Box”.

These boxes are sourced directly from Japan. They are intricately designed and handmade by Japanese Craftsmen; a very high-quality work of art. These puzzles are not a robust toy intended for use by children so please consider who the puzzle is to be given to. The puzzle should be treated carefully and with the respect that it deserves when testing which panel might slide to open it. The fit is precise but panels that are designed to move will move smoothly when everything is lined up correctly so please do not use excessive force to try to move something.

Packaged in a lovely gift box with a brochure explaining the history of Himitsu-Bako. A solution is provided.

Size of base 150mm x 77mm Height: 105mm Space inside: 84mm x 46mm and the height at the apex of the roof is 65mm. Wall height is 40mm.

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